Proteas are one of those statement flowers that just have a wow factor for me! There are so many different varieties it’s hard to explain how truly beautiful I find them, I love the way they add so much interest to any design, they create a bold statement, not only in shape but depth and texture too. Their bold striking colours allow them to stand out from the crowd which makes them perfect for gifts and events.
There are so many different Proteas, in such an array of bright colours that I never get bored of working with them, which is pretty important when you are an independent florist!
10 interesting facts about Proteas I wanted to share with you
The Protea is said to date back over 300 millions years. They are thought to be one of the oldest flowering plant families still alive today. This associates the Protea with long life and longevity.
The Protea genus is said to be named after the Greek God and son of Poseidon, Proteus. Proteus is thought to have the ability to shape-shift into lots of different forms, it was thought he was able to see the past, present and future but didn’t enjoying telling people so to avoid this he would change form in order to escape and hide from the people seeking his gifts.
There are over 1500 species of Proteas from small shrubs to large trees. Although they all vary in size and shape each one is as beautiful as the next which allows them to create an unusual focal point to any floral arrangement and particularly admired in our flower arrangements, so if you are looking for an unusual and striking floral arrangement for your wedding display or centrepiece, this could be an option for you.
Australia has the largest collection of Protea species with over 850 varieties, with South Africa coming in second with over 350 varieties.
The King Protea gets it name as it looks like a crown is the national flower of South Africa. The King Protea features on their birth certificates and passports as well as being the name for the national cricket team.
The Protea has been used in several medicines from a cough syrup, to medicine that helps to fight chest infections. The leaves can also be used to make tea.
Every flower has stories and meanings associated with them. The Protea is said to represent longevity, diversity, courage and individuality, all key components required to be an independent florist in Plymouth too.
Proteas have been said to with stand extreme weather conditions and even wildfires, the Proteas will lay dormant until the fires have past and there is suitable environmental conditions to flourish.
All Proteas have a cluster root system. The cluster roots allow them to survive in soil that isn’t as rich in nutrients.
The flowers on a Protea will bloom from Autumn through to late spring, making it one of the few plants that flowers in the winter, the plant is evergreen though.
All of these Proteas are absolutely perfect for special events such and weddings and birthdays. Whether you want a bold Bohemian bouquet, or a more subtle bouquet with the romantic history of the blushing bride there is sure to be a Protea for you. They all look completely different but can stand out against the other flowers and make a show stopping display.
KING PROTEA (PROTEA CYNAROIDES)
This Protea has the most impressive flower head among all species, it is the largest and is said to look like a crown.
QUEEN PROTEA (PROTEA MAGNIFICA)
The Queen Protea is slightly smaller than the king Protea, it often has a velvety texture.
BLUSHING BRIDE PROTEA (SERRURIA FLORIDA)
There are old romantic stories that say gentlemen used to give out these flowers to the bride-to-be when they propose and attach them on their jacket lapels to let the whole town know of the engagement, making the bride-to-be blush.
PINCUSHION PROTEA (LEUCOSPERMUM)
These Protea are round, compact, and colourful. Pincushion Proteas are great for adding textures in floral displays. They usually come in a variety of yellow, orange and red.
So which one of these gorgeous flowers do you like the most?
My absolute favourite has to be the King Protea, it’s striking and bold, it has such a presence in any display.
You can get in touch to discuss flower displays for your weddings and events and I continue to provide flower delivery in Plymouth for all of my online orders available on my shop.